Portraits from ATU

Antalya

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Ali Zengin

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work as the Team Leader at ATÜ Duty Free's Antalya operation. In this role, I plan and organize my team's day-to-day operations and ensure that processes are carried out efficiently and in accordance with standards. I contribute to customer satisfaction and sales targets by taking a solution-focused approach to the situations I encounter.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

It could have been any of the Nordic countries. The peaceful life in close contact with nature, the fresh air, the vast natural spaces, and the strong social structure give me a sense of security and peace. 

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

There isn't any trait I'd like to change about myself. The experiences I've gained over time, along with my strengths and areas for improvement, come together to form the whole that makes me who I am. Of course, I am open to learning and developing. However, rather than changing myself, I view this as developing my current aspects in a more conscious and balanced way.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

My sense of responsibility. Taking ownership of the tasks I undertake and acting in a results-oriented manner enable me to be a reliable person, both in my professional life and in my personal life.

What is your greatest fear in life?

What scares me the most in life is the possibility of harm coming to the health and well-being of the people I care about.

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

I wish I could play an instrument.       

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is the founder of modern Türkiye and a visionary leader who led his country from independence to modernity. Through his reforms, which were based on reason and science, he left a lasting impact not only on Türkiye but also on world history.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

I want my friend to be trustworthy. Knowing that they will always be there for me and that I can count on their support in difficult times is very important to me. I value friendships with people with whom we can discuss differences of opinion respectfully and amicably, and with whom we can understand each other, even if we don't agree.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I would like to be a little less of a perfectionist. So that I can get things done faster…

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

I really enjoy all the activities I can do at sea. My favorites are shore fishing, diving, and swimming.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I don't have a single, clear answer to this question. Because each choice I made made sense within the circumstances of that particular time. The choices I made at that time formed the foundation of the experience I have today. One of my greatest achievements has been to recognize that, instead of looking back with regret, every experience I've gone through has taught me something.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

The moment I held my daughter in my arms for the first time was the purest and deepest happiness I have ever experienced in my life. The love I felt at that moment is hard to put into words, but it was equally powerful. I felt with my whole heart that the rest of my life no longer belonged to me alone, but that a completely different and much more meaningful journey had begun.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

"One is greater than zero." It expresses that every step taken, no matter how small, is more valuable than doing nothing. Because every attempt and effort is a beginning that moves a person forward.

Ankara

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Sevgi Kara

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work as an Internal Communications Senior Specialist. I first joined ATÜ in 2017 as a Corporate Communications and Customer Relations Specialist in the İzmir Operation. In 2019, I transferred to the Ankara operation. Since 2022, I have continued to carry out the processes related to my role here in coordination with the headquarters' Corporate Communications and Marketing department.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would like to live in a place where the soul is as warm as the climate. It is a desire suitable for my soul as well. Barcelona fits that description, I think… A city intertwined with the sea, surrounded by aesthetics, and where life is not rushed. 

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

Actually, I would like to improve myself rather than change myself, and I frequently renew myself. Sometimes I can be too sensitive. But this sensitivity makes me someone who can empathize and truly understand people. I like this. Rather than changing it, I am learning to use it more consciously.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I am proud of being able to keep my heart pure. Life sometimes hardens people, but I chose not to hurt even in situations where I was hurt. It is as if I have bought the ability to keep my heart soft even in difficult times. I guess it is a trait passed on to me from my mother and father. I love them very much and I am proud of them too.

What is your greatest fear in life?

I have fears, but they do not manage me. I am afraid of my heart hardening and becoming desensitized. Because that sensitivity is what makes a human a human. I am afraid of my heart hardening and becoming desensitized. Because that sensitivity is what makes a human a human. 

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

I have many talents. I completed my education at the Conservatory Fine Arts Education/Music Department, majoring in Voice and Cello. Besides being intertwined with music, dance, and art, I also have a poetic side. I would have liked a mind that could write a book in one night. I wish my writings could touch all souls. I would love to be such a well-known writer that people would say, “Wow, what a piece of writing!” 

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

I would like to mention a name from my country. As someone of my gender and someone who gave direction to art, I can say Afife Jale. Because she didn't just step onto the stage; she walked over prohibitions. She showed the price a woman could risk for art. She became a light... She became a path... She was perhaps the most aesthetic form of courage...

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Smart and kind-hearted... I love the light that emerges when intelligence shines together with kindness. I choose my friends accordingly, or God brings them to me. Few and perfect.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I am at peace with every aspect of myself. Sometimes, the trait I would like to change is that I don't think things through enough. But that's also the part of me that makes me deeper and lives with full awareness and distinction.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

For me, exercise is an indispensable pleasure. I place a lot of importance on living a healthy lifestyle. I swore to channel my energy in the right direction. It's a major hobby for me.

What is your biggest regret in life?

Having taken the biggest risks I could, I have never been afraid of regret. In my opinion, being brave is the most elegant part of life. 

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

My family comes first. Every moment I spend with them becomes more precious by the day. Other than that, I feel very happy in every aspect of my life.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

“SHINE WITH YOUR OWN LIGHT!” This defines my stance both toward myself and toward those around me.

Bodrum

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Hello, I am Mustafa Tavaslı. I am a person who values human relationships, is responsible, and strives to continuously improve myself.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work as a Warehouse Senior Specialist in the Bodrum operation at ATÜ Duty Free. I effectively manage the warehousing, product receiving, and product shipping processes, and I strive to represent our brand in the best possible way by working in close communication and collaboration with my colleagues.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would like to live in Japan. I am impressed by its cultural richness, disciplined lifestyle, and its ability to combine tradition with modernity.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

Sometimes, I can be overly meticulous. Although this gives me an advantage at work, it can sometimes cause me to overthink things.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

Being patient and solution-oriented is one of my greatest strengths. I think I can stay calm in difficult situations.

What is your greatest fear in life?

The thought of losing my loved ones is what scares me the most.

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

I wish I could learn new languages very quickly. Establishing stronger communication with different cultures is very valuable to me.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

The person I admire the most is Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. His foresight and determination have always impressed me.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Sincerity, reliability, and empathy are the most important qualities for me.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

There isn't really anything I want to change about myself. Appearing as I am is perfectly fine.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

I love reading books and doing sports. These activities inspire me.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I can say that it is not having evaluated some opportunities in the past because I could not act bravely enough. However, I see this as a learning process.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

The times when I am together with my family are the moments I feel the happiest and most peaceful.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

“Be better every day than the day before.” This quote motivates me to keep improving.

Gazipaşa

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

My name is Deniz Sönmez. I have been working for the ATÜ Duty Free family for 13 years. 

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work as an Administrative Affairs Specialist. I fulfill all the responsibilities in my job description with dedication, while continuously striving to improve myself.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would love to live in Switzerland because of its high standard of living. 

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

There isn't any trait I'd like to change about myself.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

What matters to me is not just doing what is expected of me, but doing the right thing, even when it's difficult, and being a person who keeps their word. Thanks to this, I have been able to build strong, trusting relationships throughout my career, and I believe that this is one of my greatest strengths.

What is your greatest fear in life?

Losing my loved ones.

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

I would love to be able to read minds, to sense what the person in front of me is thinking. 

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

MUSTAFA KEMAL ATATÜRK. He is a great historical hero who led the Turkish nation's struggle for independence. Thanks to his courage, foresight, and leadership, he gave the Turkish nation an independent and modern state.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Empathy, honesty, energy, good communication.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I'm very happy with who I am, and I wouldn't want to change anything. Whether good or bad, every experience I've had has made me who I am today.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

Hiking in nature, discovering its beauty, and having picnics.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I don't have any regrets.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

When I'm with my family.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

A boxer loses not when he falls down, but when he fails to get back up. 

Georgia

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

I am Nana Porchkhidze. I am responsible and hardworking. I enjoy working with customers.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

My role is Sale Specialist at ATU Duty Free.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Frankly speaking, I have never thought about it, but the first thing that came to my mind is Italy, but not for my whole life.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

Yes, I can be a bit stubborn sometimes, but it does not interfere with my everyday life.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I believe I am a very reliable person and I always do everything for the people I love. 

What is your greatest fear in life?

One of the hardest things is facing a moment in life when I do not know what to do.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

No doubt, singing... 

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

I do not have one specific favorite hero, because I believe many people have inspiring qualities.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

I appreciate a friend who is loyal, supportive and always there for me no matter what. 

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I accepted my life and myself as they are now and would not change anything. Because I already have everything I need to be happy.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

Going out with my family and friends.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I do not regret anything.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

Many special moments come to mind, but nothing compares to the day children were born. 

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

Your actions determine your results.

İzmir

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Hello, my name is Mert Duyar.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work as a Sales Specialist. I try to offer the best service to our customers in our stores, keep the unique ATÜ experience alive in the best way, and help our customers leave our store satisfied.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would live in Denmark. Because it is quiet, calm, peaceful and safe.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

Indecisiveness, definitely. I frequently fall into indecisiveness about some issues. I would like to change this trait.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

My favorite feature is patience. Patience is a virtue.

What is your greatest fear in life?

Losing my loved ones.

Is there a talent you wish you had? 

Mind reading. I would love to hear the mind of anyone I want and what they are thinking at that moment.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Honesty. Who would want a lying friend who talks differently to your face and differently behind your back anyway.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

Indecisiveness. One of the things I really want in life is to be able to make instant decisions about everything. If I could decide instantly, I would save both the time I spend being indecisive and the stress.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

If my friends are available, I enjoy playing games with them very much. If they are not around, reading a book is my most enjoyable activity.

What is your biggest regret in life?

There were some opportunities I missed in life. Missing them is my biggest regret. The second one is selling my first car.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest? 

The times when I am together with my family and loved ones.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life? 

Sweat that does not flow on the uphill becomes a tear on the downhill. Doing my best has always been my motto.

Kazakhstan

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Hello, my name is Minassip.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work at ATU Duty Free as a Warehouse Supervisor. I am responsible for overseeing all warehouse operations to ensure the efficient flow of goods between the warehouse and the retail stores. My duties include supervising the warehouse team, organizing daily tasks, managing inventory control, monitoring stock levels, and ensuring accurate receiving and dispatching of products. I also coordinate with store managers and suppliers to maintain product availability and prevent stock shortages. Additionally, I ensure that all warehouse activities comply with company policies and duty-free procedures. 

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

If I could live anywhere in the world, I would choose Canada. I admire its high quality of life, safety, and multicultural environment. I would enjoy living in a country with beautiful nature, modern cities, and a welcoming community.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

I sometimes take on too much responsibility because I want everything to run smoothly. As a supervisor, I feel responsible for the whole operation, but I am learning to delegate tasks more effectively and trust my team. This helps improve teamwork and allows me to focus more on planning and improving processes.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

One of the features I am most proud of is my sense of responsibility. I take my work seriously and always make sure tasks are completed accurately and on time. As a Warehouse Supervisor, being reliable and organized is very important, and I’m proud that my team and managers can depend on me.

What is your greatest fear in life?

Losing loved ones.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

I don't know if it's a hobby or not, but I like to redraw cartoon pictures. It calms me down.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW)

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Honesty and fairness.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

If I could change one thing about myself, it would be my habit of thinking and worrying about everyone. I care deeply about the people around me, whether it’s my family, friends, or team members at work. While this shows that I’m responsible and empathetic, sometimes I overthink situations and take on unnecessary stress.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

In my free time, I love riding my motorcycle, especially on mountain roads. It gives me a sense of freedom and helps me clear my mind. I enjoy the combination of nature, fresh air, and the focus required while riding. It’s both exciting and relaxing for me at the same time.

What is your biggest regret in life?

My biggest regret in life is not taking certain opportunities earlier because I was unsure or overthinking. Looking back, I realize that some risks are necessary for growth. However, I see this regret as a lesson that encourages me to be more confident and take action when opportunities come my way.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

One of the happiest times in my life was during a motorcycle ride in the mountains at sunset. Being surrounded by nature, fresh air, and silence gave me a real sense of peace and freedom. In that moment, I felt completely relaxed and grateful. It reminded me how important simple experiences are for true happiness.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

Never give up and always be grateful for everything!

North Macedonia

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

My name is Lazar Jotevski.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

At ATU, I work as a Sales and Payment Consultant, where I communicate with passengers regarding their wishes and shopping experience.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

If I could live anywhere in the world, it would have to be an island with a tropical climate and lots of nature to explore. My favorite place I’ve visited so far is Zanzibar, Tanzania.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

We all have flaws we need to work on, and mine happens to be my stubborn nature, which in itself is not just a flaw but a value too.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

My favorite feature about myself, besides everything else, is my courage, ambition, and drive to get anything I want from life.

What is your greatest fear in life?

My biggest fears are small spaces, since I’m claustrophobic.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

Yes, I wish I could sing like Mariah Carey or Whitney Houston.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

I would rather not answer this, but I like Alexander the Great, the Macedonian, as well, he was the first ruler in history who made intercultural marriages allowed.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Probably loyalty.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I wouldn’t change a thing; I’m perfect.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

Hiking, biking, camping, and anything nature-related.

What is your biggest regret in life?

My biggest regret is not finishing my studies and university.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

It was last April; I went alone to explore Istanbul, and it was amazing.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

My motto is “You not being dependent, impressed, or fearful of them makes you their enemy. Stand in your greatness anyway.”

Latvia

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

My name is Angelika Mikulova. I am an open-minded, active and family-oriented person who loves traveling and discovering new places.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I work at ATU Duty Free Riga as a Brand Consultant - Sisley. In my role, I communicate with international customers every day, help them choose products, provide professional service and create a positive shopping experience. I enjoy working in a dynamic airport environment where every day is different.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would probably choose Italy. I love the atmosphere, the food, the lifestyle and the energy of the people. Every time I visit, I feel inspired and happy there.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

Sometimes I overthink situations and expect too much from myself. I would like to be a little less self-critical and more relaxed.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I am most proud of my resilience. No matter what challenges I face, I always find the strength to move forward. Life has taught me to stay strong, adaptable and positive, even in difficult situations.

What is your greatest fear in life?

My greatest fear is disappointing myself: not trying, not taking risks, or giving up too soon. It is very important for me to feel proud of my own decisions and actions, and to know that I stayed true to my values and did my best.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

I wish I could sing beautifully or speak even more languages fluently.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

My favorite historical hero is Joan of Arc. She was brave, stood by her beliefs, and inspired others, even in the face of great danger.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Honesty, loyalty and a good sense of humor. I value friends who are supportive and genuine.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

I would like to be more patient with myself. Sometimes I expect quick results and put pressure on myself to achieve more. I believe that learning to slow down, trust the process, and appreciate small steps would make me more balanced.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

I love traveling with my family, exploring new cities, enjoying good food and spending quality time together.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I try not to live with regrets. Every experience teaches me something and helps me grow.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

I felt the happiest during simple, quiet moments with my family — for example, sitting together by the sea at sunset during our travels. Those peaceful moments, when everyone is smiling and relaxed, make me feel truly fulfilled and grateful.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

"Everything happens for a reason — just keep moving forward."

Tunisia

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

My name is Amira Ben Chaaben.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free, and what do you do in this role?

I work in Enfidha ATU Duty Free store as a Sales and Payment Consultant. My main responsibilities include assisting customers, merchandising, handling cash payments, and most importantly, enhancing sales.

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

I would choose Dubai for its innovation and multicultural environment, where I can grow, learn from diverse teams, and gain global experience.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

Sometimes I hesitate before making decisions because I want to be sure. I am learning to trust myself more and act confidently.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

I am proud of my ability to learn quickly. I pick up new skills and knowledge efficiently and apply them effectively.

What is your greatest fear in life?

Sometimes I worry about failing, but I try to see it as a chance to learn and get better, which motivates me to keep going.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

I wish I were more fluent in another language. I’m working on it because it opens opportunities to connect with more people and cultures.

Who is your favorite historical hero from the past or present?

Ons Jabeur (champion tennis player) is one of my heroes because she proves that nothing is impossible with determination. She makes me proud and motivates me to believe in myself.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

I value friends who are supportive and positive.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

If I could change one thing about myself, I would like to overthink less when making decisions. Because I spend a lot of time thinking, it often slows me down.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

In my free time, I enjoy taking online courses or improving my skills. I am also completing my master's degree in Social and Solidarity Economy. I am always motivated to improve myself both personally and professionally.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I regret the times I hesitated to try something new.

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

One of the happiest moments in my life was when I graduated from university.

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

Fall down seven times, stand up eight. I believe challenges are certain, but what matters most is persistence.

Oman

Can you introduce yourself? What is your name and surname?

Hi, I am Gretchen Guiang.

What is your role at ATU Duty Free and what do you do in this role?

I am a Sales and Payment Consultant in the ATU Duty Free Salalah Operation. I am providing customers with excellent service, assisting with their inquiries and needs. 

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?

Canada, because it was the first country I have ever wanted to visit since I can remember.

Is there a characteristic you would like to change about yourself? Why?

No, I am happy with myself.

What is your favorite feature of yourself that you are most proud of?

Being true to myself.

What is your greatest fear in life?

Snakes.

Is there a talent you wish you had?

I wish I could fly a plane so I could travel the world.

Who is your favorite historical hero, from the past or present?

Wonder Woman.

What qualities do you most value in a friend?

Being honest.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be and why?

Being shy. I want to speak more confidently.

What is your favorite activity to do in your free time?

Listening to podcasts.

What is your biggest regret in life?

I did not pursue my dream of becoming a nurse. 

Can you share with us the place and time where you felt the happiest?

Always on my birthday because I feel blessed to celebrate another year of my life. 

Do you have a slogan or motto that has motivated you throughout your life?

Time is gold.